Lillian Reitz - Lillian Jean Photography
Lillian Reitz's interest in photography sprouted at a young age from her grandparents' influence, especially her Grandpa Bill. Reitz says her grandparents were avid photographers who loved documenting everyday family life and wildlife through photography.
"I didn't consider photography until about five years ago when I experienced a radical life change," says Reitz. "I decided to do more to prioritize my desires and dreams. I left my 9-to-5 office job, met my incredibly supportive boyfriend, moved to Rockport, and picked up a temporary job with a local gym."
During this time, Reitz purchased her first professional-level camera and fell in love with learning the ins and outs of photography.
"I took my camera with me everywhere and just loved diving into the hobby more seriously. I had no intentions of starting my own photography business, but the idea of becoming a professional photographer was incredibly alluring," Reitz shares.
In 2017, Hurricane Harvey hit and devastated multiple Coastal Bend communities, including Rockport. While recovering from the hurricane, Reitz offered donation-based mini family sessions for those who lost their family photos in the storm. Proceeds benefited local businesses that were utterly destroyed by the storm. She continued for three months, which led her to feel confident to take her photography to the next level. In January 2018, she transitioned into being a full-time photographer. In addition to Lillian Jean Photography, Reitz also co-owns a wedding photography business, Twig & Leaf Photography, with another local photographer, Cora Johnson.
Reitz’s search for fulfillment led her to discover the impact photography can have on others. "I really let the subject of what I am taking a photo of speak to me and influence how I approach it. I strive to capture emotions and feelings over static, forced poses."
"The images I'm selling through The Bend Shop are ones I captured for myself,” Reitz explains when asked how she chose which photos to feature. "Corpus Christi has had a bad reputation for being an unflattering and uncool city during my lifetime, and that just isn't the case. I’ve always been proud to have grown up here and I want others to see the beauty our community has to offer.”
By: Jessie Chrobocinski